Sports
Commandant Commends Officials, Athletes For Successful Competition
The Acting Commandant, Nigerian Army Armoured School, Bauchi, Brig-Gen. Muhammad Magaji, last weekend commended the officials that officiated at the 2018 Second Quarters Inter Wings Sports Competition of the school.
Magaji gave the commendation in Bauchi while giving medals and trophies to players and athletes who excelled during the four-day event organised.
He said that he was impressed with the competition’s organisation, especially its smooth and orderly conduct.
“I am equally happy with the behavior of the athletes and officials, as well as the rancour-free contest exhibited by the officials and athletes.
“The aim of organising the Games, which is that of fostering unity among the personnel has been achieved, especially with the spirit of sportsmanship exhibited by the athletes.
“So, I urge you all to maintain the tempo during subsequent competitions. It should not be seen as a do-or-die affair and celebrators should exhibit decorum,’’ Magaji said.
He added that the event was in line with the mission statement of the school, to produce well-trained personnel through legalistic training, manpower development and equipment management for combat readiness at all times.
“It hinged on the vision to sustain the ongoing efforts to reposition the Nigerian Army Armoured Corps toward achieving a professional and responsive Nigerian Army,” he said.
Tidesports source gathered that Automotive Wing clinched the overall winner of the games, Communications and Weapons Wings clinched second and third positions respectively while Tactics Wing came last.
Lance Cpl. Hassan Aliyu, was given trophy for the Most Valuable Player in football, Warrant Officer Hassan Olurowaju, Best Volleyball Player, while Private Goni Hassan and Chilaka Dorcas were awarded Best Eagle Men and Women Battle Tank Combat Dash Back winners.
The Bayelsa State government, yesterday, announced that the marathon will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2026.
The inaugural race is owned by the Bayelsa State Government and will be organised by Nilayo Sports Management Limited, a sports management company.
Under the theme “The Reveal,” the race represents a bold unveiling of Bayelsa’s immense human and cultural potential to the international community, inviting the world to witness the resilience, grit, and talent rooted in the heart of the Niger Delta.
According to the organisers, the race will be flagged off at 9:30 a.m., at the Opolo Roundabout, guiding participants through a carefully designed 10-kilometre route that highlights the scenic beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Yenagoa.
The course will culminate at Peace Park Square, where athletes will cross the finish line into a grand celebration of endurance, unity, and community spirit.
To elevate the experience for runners and spectators alike, the finish venue will host a high-energy post-race concert featuring performances from top A-list artistes, blending sport and entertainment in a festival-style atmosphere.
The organisers directed all registered participants to collect their race bibs and kits at the designated Peace Park Square between March 30 and April 3, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.
The race, according to them, is currently on track for World Athletics accreditation, underscoring the commitment of both the Bayelsa State Government and Nilayo Sports Management Limited to delivering an event that meets the highest global standards.
The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, on Friday continued the Commission’s nationwide appreciation tour with a visit to Abeokuta, where outstanding junior athlete, Majekodunmi Afusat Bisola, was presented with a cheque of N3 million.
The presentation forms part of the NSC’s initiative to recognise and reward exceptional junior athletes who distinguished themselves in 2025 and contributed significantly to Nigeria’s medal haul.
Majekodunmi delivered an impressive run of performances on the track. At the last edition of the National Sports Festival, she stormed to gold in the 400m and the 4x400m relay. She replicated the double triumph at the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) Junior Championship, in Abeokuta, before emerging as one of the standout stars at the African Youth Games in Luanda, Angola.
Speaking during the presentation, Olopade explained that the Commission deemed it necessary to extend financial appreciation to grassroots athletes after elite performers had earlier received grants running into thousands of dollars.
“A few weeks ago, after paying grants to our elite athletes, we agreed tthere was a need to also appreciate these young, budding talents who made Nigeria proud last year,” he said.
He disclosed that of the 376 medals recorded by Nigerian athletes in 2025, more than 200 were won by grassroots talents, underscoring the importance of sustained investment in youth development.